Food Poisoning Investigation At Popular Capitol Hill Mexican Restaurant: King County

SEATTLE, WA - King County is investigating a suspected foodborne illness cluster at a popular Capitol Hill Mexican spot. Although the county has not performed any tests, investigators suspect the bacterial toxins Bacillus cereus or Clostridium perfringens are behind the illnesses. Both cause gastrointestinal distress, including diarrhea.

The health department says that four people were sickened after eating at Rancho Bravo Tacos on April 22. The department has not received reports of any other illnesses, however.

The department investigated the restaurant for possible food safety violations on April 25, the county said. Inspectors found "improper cooling and hot holding of potentially hazardous foods" violations. But, the restaurant has corrected those violations, and discarded food that might have been contaminated.

King County inspectors will return within two weeks to followup on its initial inspection. The county highlighted that the restaurant is cooperating with fixing any violations.

Rancho Bravo is known for its fast, delicious, and inexpensive Mexican dishes. It's a popular late-night spot on Capitol Hill and is open until 3 a.m. on weekends.

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